Stagecoach to launch overnight sleepercoach service

The fleet of 10 new coaches have 53 seats which can convert into 42 beds

Perth-based transport group Stagecoach is to launch a major network of overnight sleepercoach services from Scotland to London this summer.

The £5m fleet of 10 new coaches will operate overnight seven days a week.

The specially designed vehicles have 53 seats that convert into 42 beds.

The launch of the new sleepercoach network follows the success of a pilot route between Glasgow and London using refurbished vehicles fitted with bunk beds.

The sleepercoach services will link London with Aberdeen, Aviemore, Cumbernauld, Dundee, Dunfermline, Edinburgh, Falkirk, Ferrytoll park and ride in Fife, Glasgow, Inverness and Perth.

Stagecoach Group chief executive Sir Brian Souter said: "It used to be just popstars that had beds on board their tour buses - now everyone can benefit from a comfortable, great value overnight journey."

Designed and manufactured by Van Hool in Belgium, the sleepercoaches will operate under a new megabusgold.com brand.

The first of the new coaches will replace existing vehicles on the current overnight route between Glasgow and London.

All routes on the sleepercoach network are expected to be launched during the summer and will be operated through the Scottish Citylink joint venture between Stagecoach and international transport group ComfortDelGro.